![Picture](/uploads/2/3/3/8/23382640/5006482.jpg)
The Chernobyl disaster occurred on April 26, 1986 at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. An explosion and fire released radioactive particles into the atmosphere, which spread over most of Europe. The release of these particles has caused catastrophic effects to the health of the people and environment, causing cancer and other health problems in humans and wildlife. The Chernobyl disaster is one of only two level 7 nuclear events (with 7 being the maximum in severity). Chernobyl and other cities in the surrounding area were immediately evacuated after the explosion. The city has yet to be repopulated, and the city isn't expected to be cleaned until 2065.
![Picture](/uploads/2/3/3/8/23382640/4357928.jpg)
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, as viewed from the city of Pripyat, now abandoned because of the explosion.